The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
by Kate Dicamillo
Bibliography
Dicamillo, K. (2006). The miraculous journey of edward tulane. Cambridge: Candlewick Press. ISBN 0-7636-2589-2
Summary
The story of a vain china rabbit who does not appreciate the love of the little girl he belongs to until he loses it. He is a toy, unable to move about on his own; but this fantasy adventure allows Edward to share his thoughts and feelings as if he were alive. Through suffering several unpleasant fates Edward realizes the joy and pain of love.
My Impression
The tale of Edward Tulane reminds me of an old time fable. The story seems to unrealistically jump from place to place all for the purpose of delivery the moral; as if to say lots of bad things will happen to you if you are not loving and appreciative of others. If not for the reunion in the end it would be almost too depressing to bear.
Reviews
From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6–Edward Tulane, a china rabbit, is the main character in this thoughtful tale…Edward learns to love the people he encounters. He also learns that family members can be cruel to one another; that hobos have family that they love dearly and don't want to forget; that no matter how much you love someone, she may still die; and that no matter what happens in life, never give up on love. - Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL
From Booklist
Gr. 2-4. Edward Tulane is a china rabbit with an extensive wardrobe. He belongs to 10-year-old Abilene, who thinks almost as highly of Edward as Edward does of himself. Even young children will soon realize that Edward is riding for a fall. And fall he does, into the sea, after mean boys rip him from Abilene's hands during an ocean voyage. Thus begins Edward's journey from watery grave to the gentle embrace of a fisherman's wife, to the care of a hobo and his dog, and into the hands of a dying girl. Then, pure meanness breaks Edward apart, and love and sacrifice put him back together--until just the right child finds him. With every person who touches him, Edward's heart grows a little bit softer and a little bit bigger. - Ilene Cooper
Suggested Activities
Have students’ list story events and then discuss the character traits observed during each event. Encourage them to look for changes in Edward throughout the story.
